Photos

Why snowshoe?

By Derek Scott, PEECOf all the recreational activities that people enjoy during the winter months, snowshoeing is often one of the least popular. Of course, this all depends on who you talk to. As a big advocate for snowshoeing, here are my top 5 reasons everyone should give it a try this season. Snowshoes are easy to use If you’ve ever tried taking up skiing or snowboarding, then you know it’s a process. Unless you’re very coordinated, it takes practice to get used to balancing while moving and taking turns without falling. With snowshoeing, the learning curve is much easier. The biggest adjustment for most people is just getting used to having something strapped to their feet.It’s great exercise If your goal for the New Year is to drop a few pounds, snowshoeing is a lot more fun than hitting the gym. Between the weight of the snowshoes and the difficulty of moving through the snow, on average you’ll be burning about 500 calories an hour based on your weight and height. Throw in some elevation change and that number can quickly increase. The cost of getting started If the price of ski and snowboard equipment has kept you from getting out during the winter, snowshoeing is a cheaper alternative. Sure, some snowshoes can be expensive, but when compared to the cost of similar quality ski and snowboard gear, it’s much more reasonable.Trails aren’t crowded In general, trails tend to be less busy during the winter months, especially with significant snowfall. Even so, snowshoes will give you more accessibility than cross country skis in areas with narrow paths and uneven terrain, meaning you can explore more of the trail less traveled. The scenery The biggest motivation to get out and snowshoe is the scenery. Winter landscapes are mesmerizing, even if the trail happens to be one you’ve traveled before. It’s hard to beat the feeling of laying down the first set of tracks on a snow-covered trail.

DINGMANS FERRY — The Pocono Environmental Center in Dingmans Ferry offers many miles of trail for hiking and, when conditions are right, snowshoeing.

And from 1 to 4 p.m. this Saturday, PEEC will be offering a free lesson in snowshoeing on the nearby McDade Recreational Trail, the 33-mile multi-use trail that extends from Milford Beach to just north of the Water Gap.

Skis, poles, and boots will be provided. Register with your shoe size to guarantee a spot. No experience is necessary.

The lesson is made possible by Bridge the Gap date funding provided by the William Penn Foundation.